On-trade

Work begins on 5th Wetherspoons

JD Wetherspoon has begun development work on its sixth RoI pub, this one in the heart of Dublin, via a €4 million investment in the Lower Abbey Street site which, claims the pub giant, will create 75 jobs.

The pub, to be called The Silver Penny – a name inspired by the first Irish coinage – is due to open in May next year.

Two distinctive local landmarks, each with their own unique history and heritage, are being developed and restored to build the pub.

The first is an Italianate-style former bank, designed by architect Isaac Farrell.

Originally opened in 1839, the elegant proportions of its classical façade and ornate stonework complement the adjacent former chapel with its far simpler exterior.

The pub design complements the structure of both historic landmark buildings as well as offering a contemporary, warm and vibrant pub atmosphere.

The scheme features two bars, with the main bar at ground floor level, serving an impressive two-storey space surrounded by a first-floor gallery with a large roof light.

This area will form the main hub of the interior while a second, more intimate bar will be situated in an ornate former banqueting room upstairs with high ceilings and period details including a classically-detailed entrance and marble fireplace.

A small external terrace links to the first-floor gallery whilst next door, accessed via a glazed link building, the former chapel will have an opening glass roof to provide an outdoor dining space.

Wetherspoon Chairman Tim Martin said that the company “will continue to look for other sites” in Ireland.

 


Sign Up for Drinks Industry Ireland

Get a free weekly update on Drinks Industry trade news, direct to your inbox. Sign up now, it's free